Winching a first gen by the fork brace?

[LLonearth]

I have winched my 87 VR up into my Volvo semi truck two or three time and am curious about any potential damage to the forks. I found a thick tree strap (for ATVs with a winch) that wraps around the forks just above the fork brace and clears the front tire. I then winch the bike up a 14 foot ramp and have had no problems. The bike steers and tracks just fine after I get it down but I don't want to cause future problems.

 

It looks like I could rig up a longer strap which could connect on the lower crash bars and clear the front wheel if I am doing this the wrong way. Any input on potentially damaging the forks with this procedure? Thanks.

[Venturous Randy]

Those forks are pretty tough. I doubt you will hurt it any as long as you don't scratch one of the tubes.

RandyA

[Condor]

Since you've already used the brace as an anchor and haven't had any problems I'd just keep an eye on it for peace of mind. If you see anything unusual like hairline cracks try something else. You could do more damage using the fork tubes, but then again I see lots of folks doing it... Using the fork tubes that is....